By Lynn Allison From Newsmax

If you want to boost your libido naturally, experts say that certain foods, spices, and herbs can enhance your sex drive safely and effectively.

“Some of these substances have undergone scientific scrutiny so we know the ‘hows’ and ‘whys’ of how they work,” noted expert Dr. Ellen Kamhi, Ph.D., author of “The Natural Guide to Great Sex,” tells Newsmax. “Others have withstood the test of time and have been used in many cultures worldwide. Humankind’s quest for substances that increase both the pleasure and potency of sexual encounters spans the ages.”

Here are her top 10 choices of natural aphrodisiacs:

1.    Almonds. The aroma of almond oil has been used for centuries to heat up the bed chambers of many societies, says Kamhi. Almonds contain healthy sex nutrients such as magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids.

2.    Avocados. The Aztecs called the avocado tree “the testicle tree,” because of its shape, but these tasty fruits contain the good oils needed for the production of sex hormones.

3.    Berries. “Sweet juicy strawberries and raspberries are often associated with ripe sexuality,” says Kamhi. “Berries are high in flavonoids and vitamin C, which boost overall health, energy and sex drive.”

4.    Chocolate. Often associated with love and romance, chocolate’s sensuous “melt in your mouth” texture lends itself to heightened pleasure. It is also rich in magnesium and other minerals and contains phenylalanine, the so-called “love chemical.”

5.    Cinnamon. This aroma of this popular spice evokes a romantic response in both men and women, says the registered nurse and renowned herbalist. “Cinnamon also helps balance blood sugar and aids in the maintenance of high energy.” 

6.    Figs. These biblical fruits are high in vitamin A, potassium and calcium. Research by scientists at Rutgers University in New Jersey revealed that dried figs contain essential fatty acids, as well as a number of phytosterols, needed by the body for sex hormone production.

7.    Licorice. Licorice root has a unique, sensuous flavor and has been used as a sex enhancer throughout the ages.  It contains compounds needed for the formation of female sex hormones and supports the adrenal glands in both men and women, says Kamhi. “The adrenal glands are important for sexual stamina.” The Smell and Taste Foundation in Chicago found that women find the smell of licorice an erotic stimulant.

8.    Oysters. These shellfish have enjoyed a long history of being an aphrodisiac and rightly so. They are high in protein and minerals such as zinc, iodine and phosphorus. Zinc is particularly important because it is associated with testosterone and sperm production.

9.    Pomegranate. It’s been called the “Love Apple” and has a revered history of being a sexual symbol. “When a pomegranate is cut open, it resembles an ovary full of seeds and was eaten by many cultures to enhance fertility,” notes Kamhi. “In addition to high levels of vitamin C and potassium, pomegranates contain a form of estrogen called estrone.”

10. Vanilla. The warm, rich scent of vanilla has been long associated with love and lust and has been used as an ingredient in Chinese and French perfumes for centuries. Dr. John King, in 1898, recommended vanilla extract to “stimulate the sexual propensities.” Vanilla’s positive effects are particularly strong among older men, he said.

© 2019 NewsmaxHealth. All rights reserved.

For more on this story go to: https://www.newsmax.com/health/health-news/natural-aphrodisiacs-work/2019/06/18/id/920849/?ns_mail_uid=6952f1f9-507d-4a20-8cc0-0a1db158d76e&ns_mail_job=DM36070_06232019&s=acs&dkt_nbr=010124gl127h